PRESENTER: Jeff “Beachbum” Berry & Dave Wondrich
LOCATION: North Tiki Hut

In the thick jungles and open waters of the South Pacific, how did the Greatest Generation get lit? They adapted and overcame. The swabs made Torpedo Juice, the jarheads made Jungle Juice, and even the kamikazes had their Doburuku. Back on the home front, Trader Vic was smuggling rum up to GIs in the Aleutians, while Don The Beachcomber was angling to become Party-Planner-In-Chief for the flyboys in North Africa. And when the war was over, it was just the beginning for the golden age of Tiki that returning vets inspired. Join David Wondrich and Beachbum Berry on a booze-fueled Pacific tour of duty, with detours to the Russian Front and El Alamein. Praise the Lord and pass the cocktail shaker!

PRESENTER: Matt Pietrek
LOCATION: South Tiki Hut

While rum has been the foundational element of Tiki drinks for nearly a century, the types of rum used are anything but static. The Jamaican, Demerara, and Martinique rums of the Tiki’s golden era have evolved substantially since the 1930s, while the Tiki revival has brought a new wave of rums to the party. This session takes a fun and spirited look at how tiki rums have changed and evolved over the decades.

PRESENTER: Jonpaul Balak
LOCATION: South Tiki Hut

So often we grab a record not only for the sonic gold in the grooves, but for that initial eye candy that made us pick it up in the first place. Join musician and music historian Jonpaul Balak for an in-depth look at some of the most interesting examples of album cover art and design that utilize Oceanic Art and Polynesian Pop themes. Embark on a visual journey of discovery and identify the origins of subject matter, significant locations and more!

PRESENTER: Will Anders
LOCATION: South Tiki Hut

Don't rush inside - learn about the history of the gardens and tikis outside from artist and carver Will Anders. Forty years of personal Mai-Kai stories up to and including the current restoration of the historic tikis. Will's tales are woven with threads of passion and reverence, offering a glimpse into the soul of this sacred sanctuary. So, linger a while, and let the whispers of history caress your senses, for in these moments of reflection lies the true essence of our enchanted realm.

PRESENTER: Scotty Schuder, Resa Mueller, Maria Cabrero
LOCATION: South Tiki Hut

Tiki around the globe: what is the same and what is different. An international perspective from France, Mexico, and the Philipines. Through captivating narratives, stunning visuals, and immersive experiences, we invite you to embark on this exhilarating journey with us as we unravel the common threads that bind us in our love for escapism, while celebrating the rich tapestry of diversity that makes each cultural expression truly exceptional. So, pack your sense of adventure and join us as we raise a toast to the shared spirit of Tiki, transcending boundaries and uniting hearts across the globe.

PRESENTER: Adam Henry, Tony Canepa
LOCATION: Croquet Lawn

Join Hidden Harbor co-owner Adam Henry and the bar's go-to artist, Tony Canepa of Austin, Texas, for a spirited dialogue on the collaborative creative process that has helped to drive the look and feel of this contemporary tiki bar. Tony and Adam will share practical tips and tricks learned in the course of dozens of graphic and illustration projects from matchbooks to menus and more.

PRESENTER: Jen (Swizzle), Resa (Mermaid), Maria (Cocomama), Devon (BarTiki)
LOCATION: South Tiki Hut

Join us for an insightful presentation led by a dynamic panel of female bartenders and bar owners as they share their unique journeys and experiences within the hospitality industry. From navigating challenges to celebrating triumphs, these inspiring women will offer valuable insights into their roles, shedding light on the evolving landscape of mixology and entrepreneurship. Discover the power of passion, resilience, and creativity behind the bar, and be inspired to raise your glass to the diverse voices shaping the world of cocktails today.

PRESENTER: TBD
LOCATION: Croquet Lawn

Chaos. Bedlam. Shenigans. We call it Rum Amok. We've gathered Jeff Berry, Ian Burrell, Matt Pietrek, and Dave Wondrich together in one place to discuss rum and the meaning of life. There is NO CHARGE for the symposium, but if you want to follow (drink) along with this motley crew you can purchase the rum samples on our ticket page.

PRESENTER: Jeff “Beachbum” Berry & Dave Wondrich
LOCATION: North Tiki Hut

Enjoying that Blue Hawaii or Tropical Itch? Thank Southeast Asia, the home of immigrant bartenders who made it big in the U.S. tiki hotspots of Manhattan, Waikiki, San Francisco, Denver, and Phoenix. In this world-premiere session, Beachbum Berry and David Wondrich team up to bring you the untold story of legendary Chinese and Japanese bartenders like Harry Yee, Takao Yamaguchi, Bob Ching, Hop Louie, and many others who overcame racism and ostracism to create delicious drinks and lasting legacies. Kamau, Kampai and Gambei!

PRESENTER: Johnny & Shanna Lowe (Rita's Lost Weekend) / Don & LuRu (Hammerhead Hideaway)
LOCATION: South Tiki Hut

Embark on a tropical journey with our guide to building a Tiki home bar on any budget! Transform your space into a Polynesian paradise with clever DIY tricks, affordable decor finds, and budget-friendly drink recipes. Whether you're dreaming of a lavish luau or a cozy hideaway, we'll show you how to create a tiki oasis that transports you to island bliss without breaking the bank. Get ready to sip in style and escape to your own slice of paradise right at home!

PRESENTER: Tiki Underground, Porco, Tiki Tiki Bang Bang, Huli Huli
LOCATION: Croquet Lawn

Step into the enchanting world of Ohio Tiki as we delve into its rich history and vibrant present in a captivating presentation. Explore the intriguing fusion of tropical escapism and Midwestern charm that defines Ohio's Tiki culture. From its humble beginnings to the thriving scene today, discover the unique influence of this exotic aesthetic on the Buckeye State. Join us for an immersive journey through time and taste, as we uncover the hidden treasures and spirited innovations of Ohio's Tiki heritage

PRESENTER: Darren Perlmutter
LOCATION: South Tiki Hut

Dive into the mysterious, mildly sedative world of kava in our once-in-a-lifetime (because, let’s face it, you might not remember much) course at the Hukilau! This isn't just your average sip-and-learn; it's an epic journey through the rich tapestry of kava history and culture, narrated by someone who swears they've visited all the Pacific islands (on Google Maps). Discover the magical root that made its way from being a ceremonial sip in the south Pacific to a trendy, chill-out beverage in urban hipster havens. You'll learn how to tell your Vanuatu from your Fijian kava without needing to squint at a label or consult a chieftain. Get ready to impress your friends with tales of kava’s past, its ceremonial importance, and how it can make any social gathering feel like it's moving in slow motion. Join us for this swanky, slightly numb-tongued adventure, and become the kava connoisseur you never knew you needed to be. Warning: Side effects may include an increased sense of calm and a deep, inexplicable desire to discuss the nuances of Pacific Island geopolitics.